What's Happening?
Ha-Seong Kim of the Atlanta Braves has opted out of his contract and will enter free agency this winter. Kim, who joined the Braves mid-season from the Tampa Bay Rays, played 48 games in 2025, splitting his time between the two teams. Despite a modest
performance with a .253 batting average and three home runs in 24 games with the Braves, Kim's decision to test the market comes at a time when the shortstop free agency class is notably weak. The Braves, who struggled with infield depth last season, may consider re-signing Kim to bolster their roster.
Why It's Important?
Kim's entry into free agency highlights the Braves' need to address their infield depth, particularly at shortstop. With a limited pool of available talent, Kim's decision could influence the Braves' offseason strategy as they seek to improve their roster following a disappointing 2025 season. For Kim, free agency presents an opportunity to secure a more favorable contract, potentially with a team in greater need of his skills. The outcome of his free agency could impact the Braves' competitiveness in the upcoming season and shape the market for other shortstops.
What's Next?
The Braves will need to evaluate their options at shortstop, considering both internal candidates and external free agents. Kim will likely receive interest from teams seeking to strengthen their infield, given the scarcity of available shortstops. The Braves' decision on whether to pursue Kim or explore other options will be crucial in determining their offseason direction. As teams begin to make moves, the dynamics of the free agency market will become clearer, influencing the strategies of other MLB teams.
